YES! YOUTH EMPOWERMENT SOCIETY
‘YES’ is a new initiative amongst Grade 11 students in Grahamstown who meet once or twice a term to discuss local, national and international issues. The idea originated with History teachers, Trish Middlebrook (DSG and SAC) and Louella Hastie (VG) who are acutely aware that discussion within History classes takes place between students from similar social and economic backgrounds which often makes discussion one-sided. The students in YES are encouraged to listen to other opinions, build connections and widen their perspectives. Topics so far have included discussions around education, racism, gender, media and substance abuse. The students are now keen to develop a ‘buddy system’ where they attend each others’ schools and, perhaps, help each other with studies. Schools who are already involved are Nombulelo, VG, Graeme, St Andrew’s, Mary Waters, DSG. The intention is to expand this group so any schools who would like to find out more, please contact t.middlebrook@dsgschool.com
